Abuja, Nigeria – October 17, 2025: Renowned cleric and good governance advocate, Bishop Prof. Emeka Nwankpa, has issued a stern warning to politicians across the country, urging them to refrain from politicizing the ongoing calls for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Bishop Nwankpa, who is also the Convener of the South East Mandate for Good Governance (SEMGG), expressed deep concern over the recent development in which certain political figures are believed to have hijacked the upcoming protest scheduled for October 20, originally intended to peacefully advocate for Kanu’s release.

“The call for Nnamdi Kanu’s release is a serious matter rooted in justice, equity, and respect for human rights. It should not be reduced to a political game,” Bishop Nwankpa stated.

He emphasized that the struggle for Kanu’s freedom transcends party politics and should not be exploited by those seeking to gain political mileage. He warned that politicizing such a sensitive issue could undermine the genuine efforts being made by well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organizations, and religious leaders who are advocating peaceful and lawful resolution.

“As Convener of the South East Mandate for Good Governance, I have always championed dialogue, justice, and peace. We cannot afford to let political opportunists hijack this cause and derail its true purpose,” he said.

Bishop Nwankpa reiterated that while peaceful protest is a democratic right, it must not be turned into a tool for political manipulation. He urged the organizers and participants of the October 20 protest that if the protest must go on, they should remain vigilant and ensure the movement stays focused on its original objective — lawful and peaceful.

The cleric further advised political leaders to act with sincerity and prioritize the unity and stability of the country over selfish interests.

“Hijacking a genuine cause for political purposes not only disrespects the plight of Nnamdi Kanu and his supporters, but also threatens national cohesion. If the protest must go on, the organizers should remain watchful, and must remain law-abiding and peaceful,” he added.

In a significant call to action, Bishop Nwankpa appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to show leadership by addressing the matter with urgency and justice.

“I call on President Tinubu to rise to the occasion and act decisively in the interest of national unity. This is not just a legal matter; it is also a moral one. The President must demonstrate statesmanship by ensuring that Nnamdi Kanu’s matter is resolved fairly,” Bishop Nwankpa said.

He stressed that healing and reconciliation in the South East cannot happen without a genuine effort from the highest levels of government to address the root causes of unrest and grievances.

“This is the time for healing and reconciliation, not for division. We must rise above politics and put the interest of the nation first,” he concluded.

The October 20 protest, which has gained momentum across several states, was originally planned by civic groups and pro-democracy advocates to demand a fair and lawful resolution to Kanu’s prolonged detention. With growing fears of political infiltration, Bishop Nwankpa’s timely intervention serves as a call for restraint, unity, and focus on genuine national interest.